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I used to hate my shrinkage.

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Shrinkage can be frustrating when you pull a curl down just to see it snap back up. Shrinkage can hide the true length of your hair. Some curlies experience more shrinkage than others. The curly girl magic trick can be frustrating for some and can take time to fully accept and embrace. Previously, I was frustrated with my shrinkage and did not know how to fully accept it. I would try to use hair products that would aid in reducing shrinkage while sitting in front of my mirror and waiting for results. My 4-year hair anniversary is approaching soon, and while reflecting on my journey I finally came to terms with my love-hate relationship with shrinkage.

Read On!>>>
The era of length checks
The reason I did not like my shrinkage was because I was not able to see my true length with my shrinkage. I did the big chop in August 2011 and right away I learned how to love and care for my natural hair. I learned how to properly moisturize and style my hair so it can be healthy and grow to its full potential. I watched many YouTube videos and received advice from loved ones who wore their natural hair to learn this texture. I like to call this time period "the era of length checks." While watching these videos, it was normal to compare your hair and growth to these other curlies. Even though it was great to see curlies at different parts of their hair journey, it was also discouraging and challenging at times.

I discovered stretched hairstyles
I started to wear more stretched hairstyles like twists outs and braid outs to see my length. It allowed me to see my hard work and that I did to take care of my healthy hair. I would occasionally wash and go, but the shrinkage would frustrate me. I realized that seeing my hair in stretched styles allowed me to see my growth and it proved that what I was doing was working to maintain length.

I came to love my shrinkage
Now, I have fully accepted, embraced, and love my shrinkage. I do not wear my hair in stretched styles as often as before. I still pineapple my hair at night to simply maintain my hairstyle at night. I learned that shrinkage has great benefits for curls and can even help maintain length! I no longer get frustrated with my shrinkage because I know it makes my curls special and unique. It makes me happy that I do not view shrinkage as a negative thing anymore.

Do you hate your shrinkage? Question it
Shrinkage is so common with curlies and there are many different techniques that we use to stretch our hair. Not only that, there are many products in the market that claim to help reduce shrinkage. With all of these resources available, it is common for a curly to try to reduce shrinkage with their curls. However, just try not to lose sight that your curls are already beautiful with the shrinkage.

If you’re battling a love/hate relationship with your shrinkage, think about the reason why you dislike it. Is it because it affects the end result of your styling? Does it mask your truth length? Be honest with yourself and the acceptance will start there. Try styling your hair a few times a week without stretching your hair. You may like the versatility that you actually do not get with your hair stretched. For example, I personally like the definition that I receive when my hair is not stretched. My twist outs last longer due to this definition and it can last up to a week.  

Do you get frustrated with your shrinkage? Does your love/hate relationship with the curly magic trick play a huge role in your hair journey? Why or why not?
 

On Being Alone-- The Sexiness of Solitude

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"Certain springs are tapped only when we are alone. The artist knows he must be alone to create; the writer, to work out his thoughts; the musician to compose; the saint, to pray. But women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves...

...The problem is not entirely in finding a room of one's own or the time alone, difficult and necessary as this is. The problem is more how to still the soul in the midst of its activities. In fact the problem is how to feed the soul." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh
I love my life. I do. I'm blessed beyond measure and am surrounded by love. One day I'll look up and see my three grown children all around me and I'll wonder where the time went. I'll miss them and want them to come home more often. I know it.

Read On!>>>
Nevertheless, right now I treasure my limited alone time as a necessity right up there with water and food. I crave it and look forward to it the way men looking forward to their semi-weekly roll in the hay.

Did you know that "privacy deprivation syndrome" is actually a thing? Symptoms include increasing resentment, mood swings, chronic fatigue, and depression. (source: Simple Abundance)

This is common particularly among high-achieving women who are high on internal and external demands, and low on the self-preservation skills that are necessary to stay afloat. These women (we) complain that the first thing sacrificed is private time and private pleasures.


Are you one of these women? How do you protect your time alone? Does your family support you? Do you ever feel guilty about wanting to be left alone? 
If you're a woman who has plenty of time to herself, enjoy it. Seasons change and what you take for granted now may one day become scarce. Indulge in this time you have to discover yourself.

For Girls with 4C Hair when their Love for Coils Ain’t Enough: Trimming

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by Jamilla via AroundTheWayCurls

I used to run from them as a child. I mean, make a b-line for the closest vacancy or excuse to change the subject. As soon as someone tried to s-p-e-l-l the word I would immediately remember the homework I needed to finish or the laundry I just had to do.

Trims, man. I do not have fond memories.

Read On!>>>
There was never a science to trimming. Or dusting, for that matter. My ends would get lopped off when they were “bad”, as if they were a child who needed discipline or a tree that bore rotten fruit. The few times I landed in a hair stylist’s chair, it was simply assumed that I needed a trim to compliment my freshly relaxed, oil-sheen-slicked-stiff, portabella mushroom doo.

Y’all know the one I’m referring to. Don’t lie.

Because of these perpetual trimming nightmares, I never learned to associate trimming my hair with positive outcomes. I never learned to connect the removal of hair to a love for army of 4C coils and a nurturing of their potential. Honestly, when my ends were clipped they stood zero chance of retaining their integrity because I never had a consistent moisturizing, sealing, or deep conditioning routine. So what happens when you stay trimming with no plan after the trim? Child– you have ear length hair for life and then complain that your hair “just doesn’t grow”. Couple the “it don’t grow” narrative with the “I have 4C natural hair and so it will never be long” pity party and well, you’ve got a pretty sinister view of trimming and length retention in general.

Here’s the thing. Trimming is an essential part of your hair care routine, especially for us gals with 4C hair. Notice that I did not mention a scientific formula for when to time your trims or a well-known beauty salon to where you should get them. Understand that because our strands contain more coils than other hair types, [read: we have the MOST coils] our ends are prone to dryness since the sebum has difficulty travelling from our scalp on down. We must be vigilant with our moisture routine in order to circumvent this. Consistently dry ends will split, break or incur single strand knots, all of which must be trimmed to allow our hair to flourish.

Yes, philosophically loving your coils just the way they sprout from your scalp is wonderful. It really is. But if you are seriously on a journey to retain real length– not those claw looking see through ends– you’re going to have to trim, my friend.

For anyone curious about why I’m talking trimming, I recently did a deep trim of 1.25 inches. Detangling was getting ridiculous and split ends were everywhere. I tried to avoid the session by conducting a “search and destroy”, but when 8 of 10 strands looked cray, I decided to lop them off and give my coils a fresh start. That’s how you have to be. Gangsta with it. Talk yourself through the process if you have to, but get it done. Your coils will thank you.

The result? Less knotting. Less tangling. Less shedding. More fullness. The best part is that within the next 4 months, that hair will grow right back. But this time, it will look lovely.

 –Jamillia


Send Questions about Your #4cCoils to love4coils@gmail.com or Catch Me on Instagram @love4coils.

How often do you trim? 

Coil Defining Techniques For Type 4a Hair

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 by Amanda

Three years ago, I never thought that I would have become a wash and go natural, and now I know that was because of my poor technique and the length of my hair. Wash and go's are nothing short of amazing. They are by far the lowest manipulation style that works for me. There is no need to set anything at night and I never wake up with matted hair in the morning. This is as lazy as it gets, and I love it! Now, I do want to preface my tips by saying that if your hair does not naturally have definition, which can be observed while the hair is wet, then there is nothing for a curl-defining product to capture. If you are still yearning to be a wash and go natural, here the steps I use to achieve my defined wash and go.

Read On!>>>

 1. Deep Conditioning
Moisture is essential to maintaining your curl definition. Sometimes frizz is a result of dryness, but not always, as hair can be naturally frizz. When dry hair encounters humidity it will expand as a means to absorb moisture. The best way to prevent this is making sure your hair is properly moisturized. I wash my hair twice a week and I always deep condition after I clarify. Deep conditioning helps to restore the pH of your hair so if you do not follow up your shampoo or co-wash with a daily conditioner or deep conditioner, then I highly suggest that you start. I deep condition for at least 20 min. with a plastic cap before rinsing.

2. No Combing…After Deep Conditioning
I have accepted the reality that I do not have the patience to finger detangle. Finger detangle is a great way to prevent breakage but I could not tolerate it. Not only was my wash day twice as long but since I was rough it became completely counterproductive. The key to maintaining your curl clumpage is to detangle your hair before deep conditioning. I detangle with my deep conditioner before I allow it to process. When it is time rinse, you do not want to disrupt your curl clumpage with a comb, so make sure detangling is done prior to allowing the deep conditioner to sit.

3. Apply Products to Soaking Wet Hair
After rinsing the deep conditioner, I add my moisturizer followed by my styling products while I am in the shower. I have tried adding products to damp hair and even dry hair but my fine, medium density coils maintain their definition longer when I apply products to soaking wet hair. Then, I place my hair in two low buns while I wash the rest of my body.

4. Air-Dry
I have tried plopping with a t-shirt but this still manages to induce frizz. I have also tried using a blow-dryer on cool air with low speed, but it takes too long for my hair to dry and my arm gets fatigued. Air-drying allows my hair to dry the softest and the most stretched compared to the other two options.

5. Shake…Only After 90% Dry
I rake but I do not shake until my hair is 90% dry. Shaking my hair immediately after applying products only creates frizz. My hair naturally separates and rises throughout the week so flat hair is not a concern.

6. Scarf and Bonnet Pineapple
At night, I simply pineapple with a satin scarf and bonnet minus the hair tie. First, I bend over to flip my head upside down and shake my hair. Next, I wrap a satin scarf around my nape, pulling the ends toward the front of my hairline. Once the ends of the scarf are tied near my forehead, I slightly pull the loose end of the scarf forward to make sure it is snug. Lastly, I cover my hair with my bonnet. This ensures that my ends are protected. Still confused? I will have a tutorial coming soon on our YouTube channel The Twist.

7. Roll the Windows Down
In the morning I remove my bonnet and scarf. Voila! The back of my hair is sticking out! Sounds familiar? Let me tell you what I do not do. I do not pull my hair to make it lie down and I do not refresh it with products. Tugging and refreshing my hair will only encourage frizz and shrinkage so I always make sure I have a good quality moisturizer or leave-in conditioner. So, what do you do? Leave the house and drive with the windows down! This works every time. The combination of gravity and wind will help your hair fall back into place.

For the next 3-4 days I repeat the last two steps everyday. My wash and go style last for a week but due to my sebborheic dermatitis I must clarify twice a week.

How do you achieve a defined wash and go on your Type 4 hair?

SHOW AND TELL- FIERCE FRIDAY!

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Hola Chicas!
Fierce Friday is a way to celebrate our natural hair, displaying our dopest styles and best hair days... for inspiration and motivation. Wanna be featured? All you have to do is upload your favorite pics to Instagram with the tags #FierceFriday and #CurlyNikki. Be sure to share a brief description of the style, where you were headed, why you felt amazing, etc.!

My detailed product review featuring @hellocurlies. Link is in my bio! #hellocurlies (p.s--don't let that shrinkage fool you!..lol.) @ _cebelamour_


The creature beneath the crochet! I'm supposed to be protective styling for the next few months, BUT no install will ever replace my real hair. 3 years ago I swore off extensions, but after I found crochet braids, I decided that style was a suitable alternative for someone like myself who adores kinky, curly textures that look like OURS. However, during every install I battle with wanting to be free and wear my natural hair. I'll give myself a few days of freedom before I set off on another length challenge. Anywho, Happy Fro Friday tomorrow @kywill


After work selfie Meanwhille I'm still loving my wash and go (6th day hair). Big hair rules #buttercurls #naturalhair @butter_curls

She didn't look like the others, and it never bothered her because she wasn't supposed to #selflove @yol._


It's been a while since I wore my @hautekinkyhair Haute Curls wig. I sooo loved this look!! It'll be making an appearance soon! @takeya_monique


Yo it's Friday and I'm way up!! #protectivestyles #natural #naturalchix #naturalhairdaily @mrsdcstylist

SURPRISE! finally got a deva cut #curlsessions #naturalhairdaily #curlynikki #naturallyflyydetroit #curls #coils @naturallymani93


There's more than one way to kill it with style! I present to you Adorn by Style Fatale; our new line of bold fabric flower crowns. Each petal was handcrafted to form these beautiful flowers. Shop "The Kente" and other styles. @stylefatale


Haven't worn a top knot in over a year but the humidity and rain is killing my hair. #teamnatural #teamearthy #teamImfrustratedwithmyhairrightnow @biancachene


Happy Hump Day! Think I may have finally...after 7 years figured out my #washandgo technique... it will be my go to for this #summer. Next up...#color #kinkyhair #curlyhair #curlynikki @demi0914

OH .. Hey curls... I've missed you!!! @priceless_tamara

Tips for Transitioning Little Girls to Natural Hair

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By Shaunic of BrownGirlsHair.com

My daughter has never had a perm, but I did! I had a perm for more than 20 years before I decided to transition my hair to natural in 2009. (My daughter’s hair inspired me to transition to natural.) I knew that if I could be patient and figure out how to manage her natural hair, I could certainly do the same with mine.

If you gave your little girl a perm and now regret it, or you've transitioned like me and want to do the same with your daughter, or whatever your situation maybe, I am going to share my transitioning tips and suggestions with you.

Read On>>>
My suggestions are based on HOW I TRANSITIONED. I would use this same method on my daughter if I were in the situation of transitioning her hair. You can use this information for your daughter's and/or your transition to natural hair.

WARNING.....

It is NOT going to be easy and the journey of figuring out what products your (daughter’s) hair likes is NOT going to be fun or CHEAP. I can't promise you that your hair or your daughter’s hair will look or feel cute to you during the process, but you just need to be determined to make it work no matter what!

What works for your favorite YouTube Guru may or may not work for you. The Natural Hair JOURNEY is exactly what it is. It is a journey to figure out what will and won't work for YOUR hair. Yes, try the methods that you see. Yes, try the products that you think will work for you. Just know that it will take a lot of trial and error to find what works best for YOUR hair.

1. PATIENCE
You must have tons of patience in the process of transitioning. You are going to have a lot of up and down moments going through this process. You must be patient with your hair and give yourself a fair chance to figure out your hair.

2. BIG CHOP
I choose not to do the big chop because I don't have the face for short hair and my husband didn't want my hair to look like his so I just simply let my perm grow out. That is exactly what I would recommend for a little girl. For most girls, the big chop is out of the question so how about doing LITTLE CHOPS.

LITTLE CHOPS can be done by trimming the ends as the hair grows. For every inch or two of new growth, trim an inch. It may appear as if the hair isn't growing because you are trimming it often. In the long run, you are getting the same results as if you did the big chop; you are just taking smaller steps.

3. NEW GROWTH
Dealing with 2 textures isn't going to be easy, but it can be a smooth process. During this time with my hair, I chose to keep my hair in roller sets. For me, roller sets help to mask the 2 textures as my hair grew.

For a little girl, I would keep it in braids or cornrows being careful to make sure they are not too tight. Keep her hair moisturized and clean. Curlformers are a great option as well.

4. DEMARCATION LINE
The demarcation line is where the new growth and permed hair meet. It is said to be the most delicate part of your hair where breakage is most likely to occur. When your hair is wet, you will notice from the root to the demarcation line your hair will be curly/kinky (that's your natural hair) when you see that the rest is straight, that's your permed hair.

It's up to you when you choose to cut the remainder of the permed hair off. When you do that, you will instantly become an all natural hair girl! For your daughter, I suggest you wait until her natural hair is at a length long enough that she will be comfortable wearing before you cut the remainder of the perm off. The amount of time it takes for her hair to grow will vary from head to head. Stay patient and enjoy the process.

5. HAIR PRODUCTS
I found it difficult to find the right hair products during my transition phase. That doesn't mean that you will have the same experience, but it was very frustrating for me. I would spend money on a product only to find that it dried my hair out or it made my hair to oily, or it didn't do what the label claimed that it would do for me.

Once I cut the last inch of my perm out, I was fully able to judge how my natural hair reacted to a particular product. Finding the right product was hands down the hardest part of the natural hair process for me.

6. HAIRSTYLES
I'm sure you have already heard about protective styles, if you haven't google it. It's mainly styles that require little or no manipulation (combing) of your hair for a set period of time. For example braids, twists etc.

I was careful not to use a lot of heat during my transition (aside from sitting under the dryer for my sets.) My other go to style was a wash and go ponytail. I wore that ponytail to death for a whole summer (May-August). Then I wore a wig from August-October. I'm not much of a weave person but if you are, that is another great way to transition. I can't give any tips on how to care for your natural hair in that state because I have no experience with weave (sorry).

One last thing, you may see a lot of ladies who are able to spray water on their natural hair and style it... for me a spray bottle of water was NOT my friend and still isn't. That made it very hard for me to do anything with my hair other than slap some moose on it and put it in a ponytail.

Try the spray bottle of water when you have absolutely no place to be that day so that if it doesn't work, you can start over.

This is all that I can think of right now so if you have any questions or issues that I didn't address, you can find me all over social media. Send them to me and I will respond with answers (if I have them!)

Oh and be sure to buy plenty of hats for bad hair days, trust me, you will need them!

Be Encouraged! You can do this! Millions of us already have!
Shaunic/@BrownGirlsHair
www.YouTube.com/BrownGirlsHair

Got tips to share! Share below!

5 Habits to Break for Growing Long Natural Hair

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 by Roniece Wright @NaturalfromtheRoots by GlobalCouture

We all want to care for our hair as best as possible. We buy all the right products, stick to a healthy regimen, and pay attention to our hair’s needs. But sometimes, we get accustomed to practices that harm our hair instead of nurturing it. If we do these things consistently, they turn into  habits which can lead to major damage to our curls in the long run. Here are five bad hair habits to break!

Read On!>>>

1. Hands in Hair Syndrome — Once we have mastered the art of keeping our hair moisturized and soft, we have the tendency to always want our hands to feel just how soft and moisturized our hair is. This causes a major problem. When touching your hair so often, your fingertips are removing your hair’s moisture. Also, although you may not be able to see it, your fingertips and under your nails carry lots of dirt that is placed into your hair when you touch it.

2. Frustrated Detangling — We all know to be gentle with our natural hair, but some days, being gentle with ANYTHING is the furthest from our mind. When you realize that you’re having a hard day or have just stepped away from a frustrating situation, take a moment to do something that will ease your stress. Read your favorite quote, call your grandmother, watch a little bit of TV, or call your best friend. If you’re in a rush, take at least 30 seconds to take a few deep breaths. Your hair will thank you later.

3. Going to bed without protection — We all know that we should be sleeping with our satin bonnet on or on a satin pillow case. This doesn’t mean that we all do it. Once or twice after a long day or long night of partying won’t do you any harm, but once it becomes a habit, your hair is in a lot of trouble. Cotton pillows absorb moisture. Therefore, when you consistently go to bed without your satin bonnet or pillow case, you're losing tons of moisture you'd otherwise be retaining! 

4. Caring more about length than health — If you’re one of those people that absolutely loves long hair, it’s normal to feel like the most important goal for your hair is length. If you think about it, healthy hair grows. For your hair to achieve length, your hair must achieve a great amount of health. Therefore, if you dedicate yourself to healthy hair, long hair will come without you even monitoring it.

5. Comparing your hair to others — We all have a hair crush. One thing you must remember when drooling over your hair crush is to admire their hair, not compare it to yours. Comparing your hair to others can make you discouraged about your hair and you may start to neglect it or over-manipulate it trying to achieve a particular look. Next thing you know, you’re not deep conditioning as often or have started slacking on daily moisturizing. Therefore, the number one rule of a hair crush is to NOT COMPARE!

Did we miss any? Share your tips below!

Tips for Keeping Natural Hair Moisturized in the Summer Heat

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Summer is one of the best times of the year.

A time to explore, travel, and soak up the sun. All of that sounds nice, but the same can't be said for your hair. Harsh sun rays damage hair, dry it out and can even fade your color. That’s why when summer comes around, it’s time to revisit (and revamp) your hair routine. Higher humidity levels and temperatures suck the moisture out of the hair. Because summer conditions differ so much from winter conditions for example, the products used should be modified in order to support healthy moisture levels during that time.

Read On!>>>
Water-based products
Lighter, water-based moisturizers are my go-to for the summer. In the colder months, hair butters are my friend. But now, the moisture in my hair is more easily sucked out of my hair and can work against me by causing dryness. Not only that, the sun is hot and hair butter will only work to suffocate my hair.

As I Am Moisture Milk is a great light, water-based moisturizer. After one day in the summer heat, my wash and go can easily become parched.

Air drying
It’s hot enough that I need not pull out the blow dryer to speed the process along. For me, diffusing rather than air-drying leaves my hair all the more dry at the end of the day. If I air dry the problem is not as severe.

Morning and nighttime moisturizing routine
In the morning, I take my hair down, lightly spritz once again and let it air out and gain its body once again. I access the moisture level and if needed I will smooth down and refresh my wash and go using just the As I Am Moisture Milk, about a dime size to each side of my head.

At night, I lightly spritz my hair and apply the As I Am Moisture Milk. It is light but moisturizing. It also mixes well with the styling products I use. I apply about a nickel sized amount to each side of my head. Once that’s done, I pineapple or place in a high bun.

Whatever you choose to use to moisturize your curls this summer, make sure that it’s light and water based so that your hair does not get suffocated but still maintains its moisture. Here are some things to remember.

Things to remember
  • In the summer, your hair needs to breath so use lighter water based hair products.
  • Spritz and re-moisturize as needed (night/morning).
  • If one product is not keeping your hair moisturized enough, try layering with another for extra moisture and protection from the elements.
  • UV rays are harsh so protective styles are great during the summer to cover your fragile ends.
  • Lastly, remember that everyone’s hair is different but try to avoid very heavy products such as hair butters because they will make it hard for your hair to breath.
How do you keep your hair moisturized in the summer?

Diana Is Naturally Glam!

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How long have you been natural?
I have been natural all my life.

Had you always embraced your texture?
Growing up I didn't like my hair because people would make fun of it saying it was nappy. I eventually came to love my hair when I turned 18.

How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural? What was your response to them? 
My mom and dad both supported me to keep with my natural hair because it identifies who I truly am.

READ MORE>>


Describe your hair (fine or coarse, thin or thick, highly porous, low, etc.) 
My hair is thick and soft.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to your hair? 
I think it might have been getting a red ombre. But I loved it!

What’s your biggest hair related regret?
Relaxing a front portion of my hair to make bangs and my hair fell out.

What's your current hair routine? How often do you wash, condition, and style? Favorite products! Deets!
Okay. So, now I use SheaMoisture Curling Gel Soufflé and Ampro black curling gel. I first wash my hair with SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Shampoo. After the wash I apply a little bit of As I Am leave-in conditioner. After all this I split my hair in two parts to apply the Shea Moisture Gel and afterwards put the Ampro black gel and twist my hair; Because my hair is thick I make sure to coat my hair well with the products.

What’s your favorite hairstyle? Where do you get hairstyle inspiration?
I love curly hair! Before I decided to go curly I saw images of models wearing their hair out in afros and curly and just fell in love.

Who is your curl crush?
Her instagram page is: frogirlginny. I just love her hair. She defines her curl profoundly.

How do you maintain your hair at night?
I usually put my hair in a bun at night and wet it a little if it's too dry.

How do you maintain healthy length?
I try to make sure my scalp is breathing and moist.

What's the best thing about being natural?
I think the best part must be embracing and accepting the fact that natural hair is what truly defines a person and that regardless of the situation being natural is just beautiful.


Where can folks find you on the web?
People can find me on facebook under Diana Rochez
Instagram: dianarochezz and my hair instagram page:melaninandcurls

My Big Curly Hair Routine- Wash and Go Greatness!

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Eleanor is a "Cape Townian living in Tokyo" and wants to share her natural hair wash and go routine with the CurlyNikki community. 

Watch Now!>>>



OWN Your TWA This Summer- Short Natural Hair Styles

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By:

When I first went natural, I thought my TWA was the worst thing in the world. I only rocked protective hairstyles in hopes of growing out my hair. Instead, using protective hair styles turned out to be the easiest way to neglect my hair. After realizing the damage, I finally gained some courage to rock my TWA.

Own your teenie weenie afro (TWA) this summer. The summer is the perfect time to stray away from the protective hairstyles and give your hair a break. If some of you are still afraid of flaunting your TWA and continue using protective hairstyles to hide it, I urge you to be brave this summer! After all, your TWA is beautiful no matter how short it is. In time, the length will come. I also urge you to strive for healthy hair more than you do for lengthy hair. Instead of finding styles that will stretch your hair, focus more on length retention by deep conditioning and moisturizing.
We can already tell this summer is going to be a hot one, so give your TWA some fresh air and sun this summer!

Check out some naturalistas rocking their fabulous TWA’s in a few YouTube tutorials below:

Read On!>>>

Sport a wash and go too! Check out Paville Aldridge-


Check Out Mee Mahrii Finger Shingling routine-

Define your curls using Carmen, from My Natural Sista’s routine-

Quick Finger coils by Toliahli-

Remember ladies, you make your hair, your hair doesn’t make you! With that being said, your TWA will look as good as you let it. Throw on some earring and arch those brows!

How do you rock your TWA?!

Top Hairstyles and Products for Type 4 Natural Hair

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Do you have Type 4 hair?
Type 4 can range from fine to coarse with lots of individual strands densely packed together. This type is very delicate, so some women with this curl pattern often fear too much manipulation, which need not be the case. Type 4A hair is a coily springy type of strand with the pronounced “s” and the circumference of the spirals are close to that of a crochet needle. This curl pattern experiences a lot of shrinkage. Type 4B has a tighter coil that is more of a “Z” than an “S” pattern that bends at sharp angles and often has a cottony feel or texture. This curl pattern retracts up to as much as 75% of the actual hair length. Type 4C can be with or without curl definition. It also shrinks up to 75% and can range from super fine to wiry-coarse and is quite delicate.

Read On!>>>

Porosity and width
You may know your curl pattern, but there are other elements that are important to length retention and health. Knowing your curl pattern can help you select styling product and review styling tutorials, but hair width will determine how fragile your strands are, which is critical factor in breakage. Hair porosity lets you know where you fall on the spectrum of retaining moisture. Whether you have low, medium or high porosity; knowing which one is vital to stave off dryness, which leads to breakage.

How to Style Type 4 Hair
Here are a few styles that are simple to create and look amazing on Type 4 hair.

Quick And Easy Protective Style
Sophia Reed shares this ultra-quick, ultra-fab protective style she put together within minutes. If you can flat twist and use bobby pins, you've got this style mastered. She explains the importance of detangling and moisturizing while she creating this sleek, sexy look. What’s even greater about this look is it will last a few days with proper nighttime protection with a silk or satin scarf.



Quick & Easy Wash and Go Tutorial
If I hear one more Type 4 lovely say does not have “wash and go” hair I am going to scream! Why? Because every hair type can rock a bad-ass wash and go. Don't believe me? Then watch My Natural Sistas show you how it’s done. It’s all in the technique and the condition of your ends (is it time for a trim?). Wash and go does not have to yield perfectly defined curls, so once you understand that you can achieve, love, and rock a wash and go with ease. She even creates one that achieves second day hair. She explains thoroughly how she creates this look so this is truly a video that you will adore.



Trendy Roll Tuck & Pin Natural Hair Tutorial
Here’s another protective style that is super simple and will also last a few days. If you can roll, tuck, and pin, then you will have no problems with this look either. This is a great look for refreshing an old wash and go, twist out, or Bantu knot out.



How To: My Sleek High Puff
The high puff is a fave among naturals and a great look to rock after your hair has gotten old from another style or can be created right after a cleansing. TheChicNatural uses another fave for naturals to get those edges laid and within minutes she’s got the perfect high puff worthy of hair envy and sister-love praise.



Finger Coils
Finger coils is another favorite among Type 4s and for good reason. It is simple and a little time-consuming, but it can last for over a week. You can then go to a coil out so you can stretch the style. NaturallyNellzy shows her trial and error as well as her success with the style and you get to see close-up how she found the coil rhythm that worked for her hair.
Love those coils and learn how to achieve amazing styles with a little prepping, patience, and video guidance.




Best Products for Type 4 Hair
Your porosity will have the most impact on the products that work best for your hair, but curl pattern can also play a role. Every year the NaturallyCurly editors vote on their favorite hair products for their curl pattern, and these are the Editors' Choice award winners for Type 4 hair.

Shampoo

Clarifying Shampoo

Shampoo Bar

Cleansing Conditioner

Daily Conditioner

Leave-In Conditioner

Deep Conditioner

Treatment

Cream Gel

Smoothing or Straightening

Styling Tool or Necessity

Hair Growth Product

Edge Tamer

New Collection

 Share your favorite style and product for Type 4 coils below!

Tiara- "My hair has never been so thick and healthy before."

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Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey.
My name is Tiara Simons. I’m a multicultural black American, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. The majority of my family is from North Carolina. My family has Native American, Caucasian, and some Latin descent.

How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
I have been natural for a year. I never used to embrace my curls because in middle school, kids picked at me about my hair if it wasn’t straight. It was also due to an incident in high school when a girl told me the roots of my hair were African and my length was Spanish.

Read On!>>>

 
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
I became a transitioner because I come from a family that really cherishes long hair. My hair had always touched my stomach, until I decided to bleach it for an ombre effect. I would straighten my hair every single day and I got a perm because I wanted to try it out; neither of these helped my hair. My hair gradually got shorter and shorter. I didn’t realize it starting to touch my shoulders until people asked me, “why did I cut my hair?”. I was definitely a transitioner. I was not ready to be practically bald, I knew I wouldn’t have confidence in myself.

How would you describe your hair?
My hair has a lot of volume and is very thick. I would say I have a 3b curl pattern. It doesn’t take too much to moisturize my hair.

What do you love most about your hair?
I love how versatile it is. It takes really well to being straightened but honestly I don't care for that anymore. 

What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The most memorable part was when I washed my hair and didn’t have to put perm rods at the ends of my hair because it naturally curled on it’s own. It has definitely been difficult because I was the only natural in my family. Everyone around me kept telling me to straighten my hair and I just wouldn’t give in.

What are (or were) some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?
Some of my favorite transitioning styles were braid outs, I think they definitely saved my life. Perm rod and flexi rod sets gave me wand curls without the wand. I definitely still do perm rod sets on my hair.


What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
When I straightened my hair for the first time for a length check everyone in my family was shocked, as well as friends. My hair has never been so thick and healthy before.

What is your hair regimen?
After I wash my hair, I take a spray bottle filled with 1 part conditioner and 2 part water and spray my whole head damp after detangling it. Then I section my hair in four parts. In each part I use the Shea Moisture Hair Mask and Curl Cream to the mid shaft and ends of my hair for ultimate moisture. After, I apply olive oil to all my hair and some Vasline Cocoa butter to my ends. I complete the whole process with bedhead’s curl cream to define my curls. And then I’m done.


What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
I watch a lot of naturals on Youtube such as, naturalneiicey, SunKissAlba, Andreaschoice, BerryBeautiful, SayriaJade, Leahallyannah, glamtwinz334, Muchmorethanbeauty, and lanasummer. I created my own Youtube channel to help others with natural hair and makeup tutorials.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
DO NOT GIVE UP! Honestly, it’s difficult at first going natural because everyone is so accustomed to straight hair, but trust me, it is going to pay off in the long run. Don’t think about the process, think about the outcome and how beautiful and radiant your hair is going to be. Love your natural self.
  

Where can people find you for more information?
You can find me on instagram @Royal.t.e.e and on Youtube @Royal.t.e.e 

How is your dating life as a natural? Has it been a positive or negative experience?
I’ve definitely have gotten a lot more attention being a natural because my hair is so big in general. I would say it’s a positive experience because the guys I’ve dated loved that my hair was real and not a weave. Plus it’s a conversation starter.

 

Global Couture is trying to spread the word about embracing your natural hair. Love your HAIR, if it is wavy, curly, kinky or coily.
Are you naturally fierce? Email us to share your hair journey at globalcouture@aol.com

DON'T LET THESE EXPECTATIONS RUIN YOUR HAIR JOURNEY

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Any journey will have pitfalls, and no matter how much pre-planning you do, the ideal scenario may not become your reality. It’s the nature of living on this earth and it’s a part of Murphy’s Law, but many who are considering going natural or accepting their curly, coily, and wavy hair may think it's a simple transition.

Discovering your favorite products and mastering certain styling techniques does not happen overnight. Anything new takes time to learn with the hopes of one day discovering those Holy Grail products and mastering various techniques. Despite all the knowledge, videos, books, and hair meet and greets you may attend prior to or at the beginning of your natural hair journey, you will have some hiccups and misconceptions on what you are doing and what will work for you. We've all done it.

Read On!>>>

Styling
Not every style, product, or technique will work for you. The same steps someone else takes to achieve a style may require different steps in order for you to achieve that same style. For example, if you are trying to achieve small curls, someone with a looser curl pattern will probably have to use small magnetic rollers while tighter curl pattern could just fingercoil; same goal, different routes. If you have looser curls and want to achieve an afro style, your hair may require more fluffing and the use of an afro pick.

The route to success may come with multiple failures, but it is a means to discover what your hair really needs. I know some are not too keen on curl pattern's place in the hair typing system, but it can help in figuring out what will work for your tresses. A 4C may not be able to achieve the same styles as a 3A just like a 2B is may not be able achieve the same styles as a 4A, but many styles can be achieved by any texture; again, it’s about how you get there. Once you accept that, you can explore other means attain dazzling styles that will give you all the confidence you need to keep going.

Curl Definition
Curl definition is one of many goals for many newbies, and it can be a disheartening blow if you don’t realize that everyone cannot attain curl definition. Many women with Type 4 hair often get discouraged or dispirited when they do not see the curls they may want and many fine haired women with low-density hair feel the same way when they cannot achieve the volume they crave. If your hair is frizzy by nature and you cannot achieve curl definition, then explore two-strand twists, Bantu knots, braid outs, and flat twist out for stretched styles. If you fine, low-density hair then frizz only adds to the volume that you crave!

Single Strands Knots
Single strand knots (ssk) or fairy knots are the ultimate annoyance. For many women, no matter how much moisturizing, sealing, and protective styling they do, they will always have ssk. They are little knots at your ends of your hair that seem to pop up out of nowhere. While some have found ways to fight them off with huge success, the vast majority of us have to deal with them.

Frizz
Some aspects of natural hair are here to stay and another fixture of that would be frizz. While many hate frizz, we must embrace it because it is the nature of many textures! Another reason to embrace frizz is because natural hair gets affected by the weather just like relaxed hair does. There are products that claim to fight frizz and many are effective but there are days and seasons that the frizz will win the battle. You can keep applying generous amounts of heavy gels and serums to fight it off, but sometimes you need to embrace it and learn to work it to your advantage. Want the big hair? Use a light mousse, a light gel, or no styling product at all and ride the wave of volume that will surely give you the height and fullness you implore.

Loving your natural hair is more than just quitting the chemical relaxers. It’s about educating yourself on what techniques, products, and styles will work best for you and your tresses. To properly ride the waves of natural hair you must be willing to accept what your hair can do and what it cannot while first making sure to moisturize, protect, and love your hair no matter what!

What elements of your hair have you started to embrace along your natural hair journey?

Jasmine Is Naturally Glam!

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Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I transitioned for exactly 11 months. I big chopped January 23, 2015, so as of right now I am about 5 months post big chop. I chose to transition because I did not want to have extremely short natural hair with limited styling options and minimal knowledge on how to properly care for my natural hair. Also, I tried to go natural before and relaxed after 6 months. This time around, my plan was was to use my time transitioning to conduct lots of research on natural hair and that's what I did.

READ MORE>>


When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
It was amazing to see my natural hair texture after so many years of relaxing. I got my first relaxer at 9 years old and my last relaxer at 25. Even during the transition about 9 to 10 months in I could see my texture in comparison to the weak damaged relax ends and at that point  was confident I made the right decision. So, to simply answer this question, my reaction was excitement.

How did family and friends react to the new you? What was your response to them?
Most members of my family and my boyfriend are supportive. My mom has even come around. She still thinks there is a chance I will relax again, but she couldn't be more wrong. I love my natural hair, and I will never relax it again.


What was your transition routine (products included)?
Well for the first few months I flat ironed it to blend the two textures. I got braided extensions twice. And from month 7 up until I big chopped I either wore a twist and curl or a braid and curl using perm rods. Perm rods were my savior when it came to blending the two textures of my hair. My staple products during the transition were Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk, Olive Oil, Giovanni Direct Leave-In, and Eden Body Works Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner. I pre-poo/detangled with Olive Oil. Wash my hair in 4 sections. Deep condition with the jojoba monoi, and style with the Giovanni Leave-In, Olive Oil, & the Curl & Style Milk (my version of the LOC method). This routine made the second half of my transition a lot easier than the first half when I knew nothing about natural hair.

How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
The pre-poo method was key in preventing breakage, I would finger detangle my dry hair with olive oil to loosen the tangles before washing, and that would keep my hair from becoming a tangled mess as soon as water hit it. Using the LOC method I mentioned above was crucial in keeping my hair soft and moisturized.

Why did you choose to go natural?
I initially went natural because I was so bored with my hair. I felt like it looked bad 80 percent of the time, and I was tired of getting relaxers every 8 weeks. The more I learned about Afro-textured hair, the more I wanted to continue my journey to healthy unprocessed hair. I read many testimonials on how free people felt, and how much they loved their natural hair texture and it inspired me to keep going. Now I know how they feel and I hope to inspire others during their transition.

Website: jazminracquel.com
Instagram:https://instagram.com/jazminracquel/


The Importance of Protein Treatments in Natural Hair Care

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There’s a plethora of curly hair advice and information for topics like moisture, texture, and density--while proteins tend to be the black sheep of natural hair conversations. Most naturals still don't understand how crucial protein is for the strength of our tresses.

Performing regular deep protein treatments is incredibly important to aid in retaining length as well as helping with moisture levels. In between the 3-4 month gap of each deep protein treatment, the protein balance of our hair needs to be maintained in order to minimize breakage.

Maintaining an appropriate protein level in your hair comes from a number of things such as a balanced diet and applying products containing hydrolyzed proteins. First, let's work our way from the inside of the body, outward.

Read On!>>>
Protein from the Inside Out
When we exercise and work to build muscle, we know we should eat eggs, meats, and veggies with a high concentration of protein to build that muscle. The same protein we ingest after workouts helps form strong and sturdy hair strands that continue to grow. If our bodies lack protein, that new growth has a weak foundation, is fragile, and is much more prone to breakage. Simply applying a topical protein treatment would help but will not provide hair strands with optimal levels of protein internally that can withstand weekly manipulation from styling.

Protein from the Outside In
Over time, the hair follicle chips away, increasing the potential for breakage. This happens over time with the wear and tear of excessive styling and manipulation. Applying products that contain hydrolyzed proteins allows hair to maintain the results of the deep protein treatment for a longer time.

What are hydrolized proteins?
You may be asking yourself, “What are hydrolyzed proteins?” Hydro=water, meaning that proteins such as animal, wheat, and silk that are broken down by water infusion are small enough to penetrate the shaft of the hair. Hydrolyzed proteins are found in leave-in conditioners, styling products, and other hair care products. Choosing the right hydrolyzed protein for you is based on individual hair needs and hair preferences.

How to find the protein you need
  • Keep a schedule: Performing deep penetrating protein treatments on a regular basis is much better than waiting for breakage to occur. Much more length will be retained if the issue of breakage is caught prior to it actually beginning
  • Know your proteins: Try two or three products that have different proteins, i.e wheat protein, silk proteins, etcetera; examine which type of protein your hair prefers. 
  • Know your balance: Get an idea for how your hair feels when it's at an appropriate protein and moisture balance. Many naturals don’t know how their hair feels in its strongest state which can cause the misleading of diagnosis of potential hair problems 
  • Be fearless: Don’t be afraid to incorporate salon-grade protein treatments into your regimen; a little goes a long way. They’ll provide all the nutrients and ingredients necessary to bring your hair into its best condition.
When's the last time you did a protein treatment?

Three Questions.

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I enjoy watching other people. I’m fascinated by how they move and interact with one another.

Maybe that’s one reason why I enjoy reading and watching biographies. The statement “Every life has a story” is one of my favorite sayings. My social media page includes this statement, but it ends with “I’m living mine.”

I guess that is the question “Am I living mine?”

When I look at my life today, like many others, it’s nothing like I expected it to be. I think about this revelation from time and time. But it’s only until recently that I’ve come to a deeper revelation. The reason why I’m not where I thought I would be is because when I get real honest with myself, I would have to answer one of three questions:

Read On!>>>

Do I want to be there because that’s where society expects me to be?
You know there where society puts a timeline on your life. When you should get married, have kids and a career; the list goes on.

Is the reason I’m not there because of fear?
There have been a number of things I wanted to do but always found a way to talk myself out of it. As if I’m not worthy of what it is that I desire.

Am I not there because subconsciously I chose not to be there?

Always one to follow my own mind, I still wanted to be “normal” and “fit in” with everyone else. But when it came down to it, I always did what was right for me.

We have a habit of beating ourselves up when we feel society’s pressures. But maybe on some level, the reason we haven’t is because we really didn’t want to, didn’t feel comfortable or the time simply wasn’t right.

At this point in my life, I can’t undo what was/wasn’t done. The best I can do is take all that has happened, accept it and move towards the best that God has planned for me. Because unlike myself, He has the A, B, C or D plan of getting me where I need to be.

So am I living mine?

I’m living it just the way I need to live it. I wasn’t meant to live it like everyone else. As the Bible says I’m in this world, but I’m not of it. - S. Hood

Are you living yours?!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner (June's Basket Winners!)

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Hola Chicas!

So y'all went hard in the paint and I appreciate the initiation of discussion and helpful advice you shared with one another. Thanks to everyone for your participation!

The June winners are--
Autumn Blue
Kuukua Yawson
Bukola
Denisha Moore
Lola
Laddidi
 
Each winner will receive:
(1)Hair Therapy Wrap: $21.95
(1)Aubrey Organics HoneySuckle Rose Conditioner: $10.93
(1)Elucence Moisture Benefits Shampoo 10oz: $6.00
(1)Curl Junkie Curl Rehab - Gardenia: $20.00
(1)Oyin Handmade Hair Dew 8.4oz: $13.99
(1)Oyin Handmade Juices & Berries: $13.99

Please email me at nikki@curlynikki.com with your full name and home address using 'June Winner' in the subject line. Oh, and I'm hosting the exact same giveaway for  July! Past winners are eligible! Remember, no one word responses! Ask questions, get answers, foster positive discussion! Love y'all! 

Later Gators,
Nik

National Afro Day!- Fros on the Fourth!

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Kelly Russell writes:

It's that time again!  Let's take over July 4th and make it-

•N A T I O N A L• A F R O • D A Y !•

We'll go to all the cookouts, firework displays, and family events with our fros big and beautiful... rocking curly and natural hair paraphernalia!

I designed the logo, so feel free to use it for your website, blog or to make your own iron on transfer shirt. Please spread the word!



CN Says:
Planning to rock your natural hair in all its fierceness on the 4th? Upload your pic tomorrow in the comments below! 

Keyana- "My fiance loves my natural hair..."

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Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey.
My name is Keyana. I’m 25 and engaged. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana.

How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
I’ve been fully natural for less than a year now. I haven’t always embraced my hair. I used relaxers in my hair all the time because that was all I knew. I’d been getting relaxers since middle school.

Read On!>>>

What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
I was motivated to transition because of how long my hair was before I started relaxing my hair. I wanted my hair to be healthy. I started off transitioning, but eventually just chopped it off because it became difficult to maintain.

How would you describe your hair?
My hair is a 3C texture and is very thick.


What do you love most about your hair?
I love that my hair is versatile and is still able to be healthy.

What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The most memorable part of my journey was learning to get my hair the way I wanted it to look. At first, it was a struggle but it became easier with patience and practice.


What are (or were) some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?
My favorite transitioning hairstyles were Senegalese twists or perm rod curls.

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
When I first went natural my family was like “woah.” All of the women in my family had relaxed hair, but they embraced my styles when they saw my confidence. Many of them are choosing to go natural now and they love it.

What is your hair regimen?
I use Aussie shampoo and conditioner. Then, I deep condition my hair with ORS Deep Penetrating conditioner for about an hour. Next, I leave in Zuresh conditioner.

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
I love @kinky_chicks1, @foreverflawlyss, and @sensualsierra on Instagram. They have helped me to continue to having patience throughout my journey!

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.


Where can people find you for more information?
YouTube channel: @keylovesgod
Instagram: @keylovesgod

How has your significant other responded to your natural hair?
My fiance loves my natural hair better than any other hairstyles I’ve had in the past.


Global Couture is trying to spread the word about embracing your natural hair. Love your HAIR, if it is wavy, curly, kinky or coily.
Are you naturally fierce? Email us to share your hair journey at globalcouture@aol.com
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